Melbourne

Melbourne, like many big cities, is expensive. Even in the ethnic enclaves meals don't come cheap.

The free shuttle bus provided by the Port Authority makes the trip between the port and city center old General Post Office at Elizabeth and Bourke in about 20 minutes. There is also a tram line to the center city that begins just steps from the Cruise Terminal.

Melbourne Skyline

From Port: Situated in the Greek Precinct along Lonsdale at Russell Street, walk two blocks east along Bourke Street, turn left on Russell and walk two blocks north.

Must Try: Lamb Souvlaki AUS$ 11.50 (US$ 10.45).

Review: This neat and modern 24-hour Greek restaurant features typical favorites with six specials for just AUS$ 18.50. We feasted on lamb souvlaki - roasted lamb sliced from a vertical rotating spit (gyro) into a warm, folded pita bread and topped with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, onions and tzatkiki (yogurt, garlic, cucumber, olive oil and lemon juice. Don't bother ordering the extra meat (AUS$ 2). Many other appetizers and mains will grab your attention. Beers run about AUS$ 6. Wine is also available. $$

Lamb Souvlaki

From Port: Take the shuttle to the GPO. Then walk one block east to Swanston and one block north to Little Bourke. Chinatown begins on your right.

Review: A huge variety of Asian restaurants provide many choices for reasonable prices. $$

From Port: Follow directions to Stalactites. Continue north on Russell which makes a soft right at Victoria Street and becomes Lygon. One more block.

Review: Pizza, pasta and other Italian dishes will be found in abundance here. $$

From Port: Take the shuttle to the GPO. Then walk one block west to Queen Street. Turn right and walk six blocks north.

Review: Many varied restaurants are to be found in and around Queen Victoria Market. Many bargains are to be found in the market proper - clothing, souvenirs, stuff. $$

From Port: The area immediately north of the Cruise Terminal offers many varied restaurants and pubs. Walk out of the terminal area and to your north and east you will find them nearby. You will be an a beach area along Beach and Bay Streets.

Some restaurants within steps are Campari, 3 Station, D'lish Fish, Beacon Cove and many others.

The London Pub and The Local (pub) are to be found after turning left from Beach Street on to Bay Street.

Ocean Blue Restaurant at Cruise Terminal

Campari Restaurant Near Cruise Terminal